2 Marines and counting

In a post on January 10, 2009, I blogged about my nephew's (Mike's sisters's oldest child) going away party the night before he left for boot camp (If you click on "Cory Ours" under my labels you can see it). Cory graduated last week and is officially a Private, First Class (PFC) in the United States Marine Corps. Last night was a welcome home party for Cory. His parents (pictured--but I could not get a good one of them) hosted a potluck dinner and invited close friends and family. Cory was dressed in one of his uniforms and looked like a completely different person than when he left. Mike and I are very proud of him--especially Mike--Mike is not only a proud Uncle, but one who was a Marine himself several years ago and knows what Cory has accomplished. We were not able to stay too late since it was a school night for the kids, but before we left we got a family picture with Cory so we have a before and after shot. Of course we can't EVER have a nice picture with all of the family. I am not sure why, but Lydia had to cry :). Congratulations Cory!! We are so proud of you and we know that your decision to be a Marine representing the United States of America was a good one! We know you will do great things!!! We love you!

Mike and my Dad were both Marines and I have always been very proud of both of them! The last picture is of Mike, in 1996, just prior to his graduation from Marine Boot Camp.

Good Luck Cory!

Originally scheduled to leave on Sunday, January 25; his leave date was bumped up to tomorrow--Sunday, January 11--he is leaving for boot camp. After catching my sister-in-law and brother-in-law off guard, they had a little going away party for Cory tonight at their house. Friends and family came to wish Cory farewell and the best of luck becoming a Marine. Cory is our nephew--the oldest son of Mike's older sister, Debbie. Cory just turned 20 in December. Mike spent much of the evening answering questions and sharing stories from his experience as a Marine. The five of us took pictures with Cory before we left. It was a fun time.

I have known Cory since he was 9 years old. He is a very special person in our lives. He is always very thoughtful, especially when it comes to his much younger cousins--Ryan, Lydia and Emily. We love you lots, Cory, and know you will make a very honorable Marine!